He said: “The Welsh Government moved to address concerns over the NHS in North Wales by meeting the Health Inspectorate Wales and the Wales Audit Office, and then acted decisively to put Betsi Cadwaladr into special measures. This will mean its management will now be subject to rigorous monitoring, which is aimed at driving up standards.

“Some of my constituents are understandably concerned about recent developments, but the action taken should be seen as a commitment by the Welsh Government to improve the health board’s performance in every area. Dr Higson has even welcomed the move and the significant additional support it will lead to.

“I am grateful that Dr Higson and Simon Dean are keen to meet and discuss the issues affecting my constituents and address their concerns over the health service.”

Mr Skates added: “I must once again stress that Betsi Cadwaladr being put into special measures is no reflection on the NHS staff on the frontline, who do a wonderful job and run a health service the vast majority are satisfied with.”

The recently published National Survey for Wales found more than 93% of patients are satisfied with the care they receive from their GP and at hospital in North Wales, and patient satisfaction remains higher than in England. Betsi Cadwaladr came out with an average rating of 6.5 out of 10 – the second-highest in Wales.

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